Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association and Okanagan College Announce Fall Intake for Fully Funded Virtual Hospitality Certificate Program

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and Okanagan College are once again investing in the future of regional tourism and hospitality with the third intake of the fully funded Hospitality Professional Program. The initiative is open to current professionals looking to elevate their career path, and those interested in securing skills and experience to land a job in the region’s vibrant tourism and hospitality sectors.

The Hospitality Professional Program comes with no financial burden, ensuring students can focus on gaining the skills and experience needed to unlock new and elevated roles. The partnership between TOTA and Okanagan College is made possible through federal funding in order to address major industry downturns and the ongoing skilled labour shortage facing tourism and hospitality businesses across the country.

“This is an exceptional opportunity for current and hopeful hospitality professionals to level up their skill set - at no personal expense,” shared Ellen Walker-Matthews, TOTA CEO. “Okanagan College offers timely, relevant, and meaningful education and skills that can quickly elevate a career. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for career change and advancement.”

This comprehensive part-time program has been specially designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the dynamic world of tourism hospitality. The blend of live online learning sessions rapidly covers many topics of the evolving landscape, providing an introduction to marketing, social media, accounting, project management, human resources, and management. This is coupled with self-led online industry certifications including WHMIS; FoodSafe; and Serving It Right.

The first 30 - 34 weeks are spent in a virtual classroom and is followed by 10 weeks of on-site work experience, mentorship, and a job placement at a local business. From guest services to event management and beyond, students will receive top-notch training, networking opportunities and on-the-job training that will open many doors to tourism careers in the Thompson Okanagan.

Participants can choose from one of two part-time live online training schedules:

• Schedule 1: Monday to Friday mornings from October 2023 to May 2024

• Schedule 2: Evenings and Saturdays from October 2023 to June 2024

• Both schedules include work experience & mentorship: May – July 2024

Two information sessions will happen on September 15 at 1pm and September 21 at 7pm.

Interested participants can register at TOTABC.org/training. The deadline for program intake is Friday, September 29, 2023. Students will be interviewed and accepted as applications are received until the program is filled.

Don't miss out on this chance to jumpstart a career in tourism and hospitality. Interested individuals are invited to embark on a journey of growth, excellence, and success. Learn more and apply at TOTABC.org/Training.

*Applicants must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons legally able to work in Canada. The virtual portion of the program can be taken from anywhere across Canada, but participants must be in, or relocating to, the Thompson Okanagan for the work experience and job placement portion of the program.

Partnership Helping to Fill Staffing Gaps in Hospitality and Tourism Industry

KELOWNA – Like many industries, the hospitality and tourism sector has been hard hit by staff shortages over the past few years with a declining youth population and an aging workforce combining to create significant challenges.

But a new program designed in partnership by Okanagan College (OC) and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) will help to reduce those shortages.

The first of four new cohorts of students enrolled in the Hospitality Professional Program in autumn 2022. This flexible program is open to students anywhere in the Thompson Okanagan region (including the Shuswap, Similkameen Valley, Boundary Country, and Nicola Valley). The 17-week online course is followed by nine weeks of work experience in the students’ local community.

“Okanagan College is leading the way by collaborating with industry partners to respond in areas where we have real needs in the workforce,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training. “This new program at Okanagan College supports our Future Ready Plan and shows how working together with the local industry can both support people who are looking for training to advance in their careers, and help businesses find much needed skilled workers.”

Students in Kelowna, Penticton, and Salmon Arm began their courses in the Hospitality Professional Program in October 2022. The online offering is accessible to students throughout the region while industry partnerships will take the training to a hands-on model for the work experience portion. The program will be offered three more times over the next two years.

“Since the classroom work can be done online and the work experience is completed in the students’ home community, this program is accessible to many people throughout our region. You don’t have to live in Kelowna to participate,” said Okanagan College President Neil Fassina. “Flexible learning options like the Hospitality Professional Program are critical as we respond to local and regional workforce needs.”

The Hospitality Professional Program bundles several existing Okanagan College courses together. Areas of study include computer skills, management and leadership training, and human resources, as well as industry certificates such as Serving It Right or FoodSafe, and two Okanagan College Certificates – Hospitality Service Training (HOST) and the Basic Accounting Certificate (BAC).

“We are very excited to be working closely with Okanagan College to help design this program and provide training opportunities to current and future tourism industry employees,” said Ellen Walker-Matthews, TOTA CEO. “This important partnership is an invaluable collaboration as the hospitality industry works to rebuild in a post-COVID world; attracting, retaining and retraining staff and building a robust workforce.”

According to a 2019 B.C. Tourism Human Resources Strategy document, the hospitality industry is facing unprecedented challenges in finding and keeping skilled workers. The report identified challenges within the industry including the reliance on workers between the ages of 15 and 24, the numbers of which are declining at a significant rate, combined with record numbers of people retiring.

“This program is designed to start people on a journey of a career, not just a job. When most people think about hospitality, we think front desk and housekeeping. But the need is and will continue to be much broader over the next few years,” said Danelle Greebe, OC’s Director of Continuing Studies. “The Hospitality Professional Program aims to meet the needs of the industry right now. We’re very excited to be able to partner with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association to provide these courses.”

Learn more and register for the Hospitality Professional Program at TOTABC.org/Training.

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Students from the 2022 cohort of the Hospitality Professional Program in their initial orientation in Salmon Arm.

This story was originally shared by Okanagan College: https://www.okanagan.bc.ca/news/partnership-helping-to-fill-staffing-gaps-in-hospitality-and-tourism-industry

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For more information, contact:

• Barbara Bonnough, TOTA Training Centre Manager: Training@TOTABC.com | (778) 752-5877

• Kevin Parnell, Okanagan College Relations:

  KParnell@Okanagan.BC.ca | Cell: 250-317-5200

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Tourism Leadership Essentials 7-Week Program | Applications Open Until April 8

April 12 – May 26, 2022

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6 PM - 8 PM

Application Deadline: April 8, 2022

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is partnering with Okanagan College to offer the Tourism Leadership Essentials Program for Thompson Okanagan tourism professionals, free of charge through the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, part of the BC Tourism Resiliency Network.

The seven-part series consists of 2-hour online workshops, twice a week for seven weeks with Okanagan College tourism professors. Each part focuses on specific leadership skills required in today’s multi-faceted workplaces.

Participants will discover their leadership style, develop management skills, learn about teams, engagement, communication, conflict resolution, and goal setting.

The program is meant to develop skills for both aspiring leaders and seasoned veterans, with insights and tangible strategies that can be applied immediately in the workplace.

Availability is limited. While priority will be given to professionals currently employed in the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry, other professionals may be eligible.

Application Details

Applications are now closed. If you wish to be informed of future leadership training opportunities, complete the following form:

Schedule & Topics

Each week of the Tourism Leadership Essentials Program will include two instructor-led virtual sessions, plus two hours of independent work covering the followings topics:

Week 1: April 12 & 14 | Leading Workplace Teams

Learn about the skills and tools effective leaders require, how personal values impact leadership, as well as how to develop realistic visions, manage change and promote innovation.

Week 2: April 19 & 21 | Engaging Your Workforce

A highly engaged workforce results in less turnover, better customer service and increased profits. Gain strategies for engaging and motivating employees to foster new ideas and identify solutions in the workplace. Learn about motivation, teamwork, and the stages of teamwork.

Week 3: April 26 & 28 | Communicating Beyond the Basics

Communication is a key component in successful workplaces. Learn how to build respectful and productive relationships with staff and customers. Learn how you communicate, the challenges in communicating effectively, and how to improve your listening skills. Develop a methodology to plan for change.

Week 4: May 3 & 5 | Managing Conflict

Conflicts arise in all workplaces and it’s up to leaders to manage them. Response to conflict defines the result. See the connections between responses and actions and then identify shifts to build better relationships. Gain strategies for dealing with difficult people, having difficult conversations, and providing meaningful feedback.

Week 5: May 10 & 12 | Goal Setting and Time Management

Gain a methodology to tie all objectives and aspirations into a planned approach, matched with resources and timelines to meet goals. Learn how to use time effectively to keep feeling motivated and prevent feelings of overwhelm. The planning and goal setting strategies provided in this course ensure time invested results in solid and measurable results.

Week 6: May 17 & 19 | Change Management

Change is inevitable and not always easy. Learn to lead during times of change by gaining knowledge, skills and strategies that lead to successful change management. Explore reasons for change and factors that influence this process, as well as the impact of change on innovation.

Week 7: May 24 & 26 | Coaching & Developing Employees

Coaching employees builds stronger relationships between managers and their team members. Through coaching, employees are supported in developing the skills they require to reach organizational goals and strategic objectives. This course provides learners with strategies they can use to ensure their employees are engaged in their own personal growth resulting in a positive impact on the organization.

New Business Supports Now Available for Thompson Okanagan Tourism Businesses

Happy autumn and welcome to October. With the changing of the seasons, the TOTA and BC Tourism Resiliency Network teams have prepared several new business support programs to assist tourism businesses. The programs are available free of charge for Thompson Okanagan tourism companies.

We encourage you and your team members to register as soon as possible, to take advantage of these programs while they are available.

Supports include:

• Thompson Okanagan Wildfire Resilience Roundtable this Tuesday

• Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism - Apply by October 8

• Business Mentorship Sessions with Okanagan College Instructors

• BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021 - November 3 & 4

• Hospitality Professional Program - Apply by October 29

• 1-1 Tourism Resiliency Business Support Services

• TOTA Complimentary Energy Assessments & FortisBC Equipment Rebate Support

• Accommodation Accessibility Features Survey

• Change Management Webinar Recording & Skill Building Exercises

• Introduction to Sustainable Tourism Presentation

Read on to learn the details of the support programs and how to register your company. Feel free to forward this email to anyone who may benefit from these services.

- The TOTA Team

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Upcoming Opportunities

Thompson Okanagan Wildfire Resilience Roundtable

Virtual | October 5, 10 AM - 11 AM

The British Columbia Tourism Resiliency Network is hosting a virtual Wildfire Resilience Roundtable for the Thompson Okanagan region on Tuesday, October 5 from 2 PM to 3 PM. The session will begin with a wildfire scenario developed from the guest perspective, tailored to reflect the realistic and relevant needs of the region.

In this roundtable session, you'll learn more about:

• Developing a shared understanding of the impacts a wildfire may have on guests

• How messaging can influence guest confidence and safety

• Generating a repository of solutions or resources that either currently exist or could be developed to support guests and tourism operators

Read More →

Register →

Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism

Virtual | Apply by October 8, 2021

The Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism through the UN Sustainable Development Goals is a virtual capacity-building program to support businesses across B.C. to create a Sustainable Development Goal Strategy and Decade of Action Plan.

• Decade of Action Seminar (Tuesday, October 19, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST)

• Business Action Planning and One-on-One Coaching Calls (October - December)

• Decade of Action Showcase (Thursday, November 18, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST)

Learn how to align your sustainability efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals, set targets for the future, and drive meaningful results for your guests, company, and community.

Read More →

Apply →

Free Business Mentorship Sessions with Okanagan College Instructors

Virtual | One on one

Okanagan College instructors are available to deliver virtual, one-hour individually tailored business counselling sessions based on expressed areas of need.

This service is offered free of charge through the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, for a limited time. Mentors can provide support on a variety of leadership soft skills, business administration, and hospitality topics.

To access the service, register for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program and schedule a Discovery Call with a TOTA Advisor.

 If you have already registered for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, you can sign up for Expert Business Mentorship and schedule your first meeting with an Okanagan College mentor.

 Read More →

BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021

Virtual | November 3 & 4, 2021

 On November 3 and 4, come together as a tourism community to learn from everything we've been through and think differently about how we can co-create a vibrant and resilient tourism industry in BC. The BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021 is a joint virtual event, in collaboration with the five regional destination management organizations of the British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).

The BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021 is open to all tourism stakeholders and GSTC members at no cost.

Learn More & Register →

Hospitality Professional Program - Fully Funded Training for New & Underemployed Tourism Professionals Hosted by TOTA & Okanagan College

Virtual | Winter 2021/2022

Application Deadline: November 28, 2021

Do you know current hospitality professionals looking to build on their hospitality management career by further developing their skills, knowledge and connections? Someone eager to develop the tools and resources necessary to thrive in the evolving world of hospitality?

TOTA, in partnership with Okanagan College, is offering the fully funded Hospitality Professional Program to unemployed, seasonal, part-time, and casual workers.

This 28-week LIVE online learning program pairs practical, unique and intensive hospitality skills training with key industry certifications so participants can jump into a supervisory position in 2022.

Read More →

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Ongoing Opportunities

Tourism Resiliency Business Support Services

The TOTA team is here to help with the challenges your business is facing. As part of TOTA's Tourism Resiliency Program tourism companies can access the following free supports:

• Register for 1:1 Business Support with a TOTA Resiliency Advisor.

• Submit a Voice Your Concerns form so TOTA can share the impacts on the tourism industry with government.

• Email Recovery@TOTABC.com for quick questions or to share challenges faced by your business.

TOTA Complimentary Energy Assessments & FortisBC Equipment Rebate Support

TOTA is offering complimentary virtual energy assessments and free one-on-one equipment rebate consultations to Thompson Okanagan tourism companies that are serviced by FortisBC. The goal is to help businesses reduce their energy-related operating and capital expenses, energy consumption, and carbon footprint.

TOTA’s Energy Analyst can assist in choosing the right equipment eligible for rebates, submitting a rebate application to FortisBC, and guide you throughout the process.

To book your complimentary virtual energy assessment or to find out if your business is eligible for rebates, book a free appointment with TOTA's Energy Analyst.

Read More →

Accommodation Accessibility Features Survey

Accommodators (resorts, hotels, motels, B&B) in the Thompson Okanagan region are invited to share information about the accessibility features of their venue.

Please take a few moments to fill out this survey to better help us identify the accessible accommodations available in the Thompson Okanagan region.

Take Survey →

Change Management Webinar Recording & Skill Building Exercises

COVID-19 and climate change have caused frequent disruptions and major changes to the workplace for tourism and hospitality businesses. As this trend of change will likely continue, business leaders can prepare by developing a dynamic and resilient team.

Watch the webinar recording by Angela Pomeroy, Engagement and Leadership Development Consultant and Okanagan College professor, for insights on the principles of Change Management, followed by a pre-recorded video with exercises to develop change management skills for individuals or teams.

Watch Session Recordings →

Introduction to Sustainable Tourism Presentation

TOTA’s Destination Stewardship team offers 30-minute virtual presentations to share how tourism businesses can work towards sustainable tourism through TOTA's Biosphere Commitment Program.

Read More →

Thank You to Supporters of the Tourism Skills Training Program - Masterclass

On June 11, 2021, the first cohort of graduates from TOTA’s Tourism Skills Training Program - Masterclass came together to celebrate with a virtual graduation ceremony. After two months of online instruction, 3 certificates, +50 hours of mentorship meetings, +125 workplace practicum hours, employment coaching, and job placement support, 14 participants graduated, ready to deliver domestic tourism experiences and hospitality services in the Thompson Okanagan region.

The program was a great success, with the online format enabling TOTA and UVIC to connect with participants from their homes throughout the Thompson Okanagan region, including Blind Bay, Vernon, Kelowna, West Kelowna, Westbank, Penticton, and Okanagan Falls.

Students learned about Tourism and Hospitality trends, regional experiences, and the delivery of day-to-day guest service, including an overview of Indigenous tourism, accessible tourism, sustainable tourism, and communicable disease health & safety practices from a diverse roster of tourism experts.

The virtual Job Fair & Open House introduced program participants to 20 potential employers in the Thompson Okanagan Tourism industry.

Students completed the following certifications:

• SuperHost Foundations of Service Quality | go2HR

• SuperHost Service for All (Accessibility and Inclusive Tourism) | go2HR

• WHMIS Certification | Velocity Training

Thank You To The Program Supporters

The program came at a time when many of the participants were in search of next steps, resources, and a sense of connection, due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism industry. The training program was offered to participants free of charge, delivered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) in cooperation with the University of Victoria-Peter B. Gustavson School of Business and supported by the Province of British Columbia and Government of Canada.

We would like to express a heartfelt 'thank you' to the facilitators, guests speakers, presentation panelists, mentors, and job fair employers who supported this program and the participants:

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Facilitators & Guest Speakers

Participants received +196 hours of instruction from +29 instructors with expertise in Tourism & Hospitality Industry Trends, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Region, Tourism Career & Professional Development, and other required areas of knowledge to enable participants to provide exceptional tourism experiences in the Thompson Okanagan region.

University of Victoria: Peter B. Gustavson School of Business

• Avril Matthews

• Dr. Brent Mainprize

• Martin Rissley

• Christian Van Buskirk

Domestic Tourism Industry

• Chief Frank Antoine - Bonaparte Indian Band

• Aaryn Secker - CMHA Kelowna

• Danielle Hennig - CRIS Adaptive Adventures

• Wan Wan - KCR Community Services

• Shawna Quinn - KelownaHR

• Craig Pingle - Mission Hill Family Estate Winery

• Stephanie Molina - Tourism Wells Gray

• Olivia Nowek - Planet Bee Honey Farm

• Tay Briggs - Wells Gray Adventures

• Wendy Sieben - WorkSafeBC

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)

• Ellen Walker-Matthews

• Barbara Bonnough

• Jamie Bourne

• Sonja Gaudet

• Amy Kneller

• Adam Kunis

• Kavan Kumar

• Chelsea McGonigal

• Thivya Viswanathan

• Kaitie Worobek

Symphony Tourism Services, a subsidiary of TOTA

• Kelly Galaski

• Terrina Barsalou

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Mentorship Program

Industry support is essential to help up and coming tourism professionals achieve success as they journey down the path of their career. Over 6 weeks, mentors connected with budding tourism professionals to share career insights and encouraging words, resulting in +50 hours of mentorship, followed by 3 weeks and +125 hours of job shadowing or practicum time.

• Hazel Bennett - Dream Cafe

• Donna Faigaux - BC Wine Information Centre

• Kirby Barber - Entertainer

• Daniel Ruel - Fairfield by Marriott Kelowna

• Ingrid Dilschneider - Matrix Marketing

• Danielle Lister - Prestige Hotels & Resorts

• Alexandra Miege - Quaaout Lodge at Talking Rock Resort

• Shelby Jeaurond - Sandhill Winery

• Linda Woods - Sandhill Winery

• Shirley Higgins - Schubert Centre

• Katie Pease - Sustainable Winegrowing BC

• Yvonne Turgeon - Trends Magazine

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Job Fair & Open House

The virtual Job Fair & Open House introduced program participants to 20+ potential employers in the Thompson Okanagan Tourism industry.

• Best Western Plus Kelowna

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Kamloops

• Eldorado Resort & Manteo Resort

• Fairfield Inn & Suites Kelowna

• Four Points by Sheraton Kelowna

• go2HR

• Hampton Inn & Suites Kelowna

• Jackson Triggs Estate Winery

• Manning Park Resort

• Mission Hill Family Estates Winery

• NK'Mip Cellars

• Planet Bee

• Sea Legs Water Bikes

• See Ya Later Ranch

• Sparkling Hill Resort

• Sumac Ridge Estate Winery

• Summerland Waterfront Resort

• The Cove Lakeside Resort

• Time Family of Wines

• Wood Lake RV Park

Thank You to Supporters of the Agri-Tourism Entrepreneur Skills Training Program

On May 28, 2021, the first cohort of graduates from TOTA’s Agri-Tourism Entrepreneur Skills Training Program came together to celebrate with a virtual graduation ceremony. After two months of online class sessions from 20+ facilitators, mentorship meetings, and employment coaching, 16 participants graduated, ready to launch an agri-tourism product in the Thompson Okanagan region.

The program was a great success, with the online format enabling TOTA, UVIC, and industry guest speakers to connect with participants safely through a time of social distancing.

Students learned to develop a market-ready, shelf-stable product to offer in local retail, domestic, and international markets. Developed in response to the need to invest in locally derived, grown, processed, packaged, and distributed food supply to support the local economy, the program combined small business, export/market-ready training, and practical food-processing training.

The program came at a time when many of the participants were in search of next steps, resources, and a sense of connection, due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism industry. The Agri-Tourism Entrepreneur Skill Training Program was delivered free of charge by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) in cooperation with the University of Victoria-Peter B. Gustavson School of Business and supported by the Government of Canada through the Canada-British Columbia Workforce Development Agreement.

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Thank You To The Program Supporters

We would like to express a heartfelt 'thank you' to the facilitators, guests speakers, and mentors who supported this program and the participants:

Facilitators & Industry Guests

Participants received 200+ hours of instruction from 20+ facilitators and industry guests with expertise in agri-tourism product development, sales, and marketing, and other required areas of knowledge to help entrepreneurs enter the retail market and online platforms with confidence.

University of Victoria: Peter B. Gustavson School of Business

• Rob Inkster

• Kimball Ketsa

• Dr. Brent Mainprize

• Martin Rissley

• Christian Van Buskirk

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)

• Ellen Walker-Matthews

• Terrina Barsalou

• Barbara Bonnough

• Jenna Labossiere

• Chelsea McGonigal

Symphony Tourism Services, a subsidiary of TOTA

• Kelly Galaski

Agri-Tourism Industry & Economic Development Organizations

• Oriana Brueggemann - Export Navigator

• Jane Campardo - Engage, Business & People Solutions

• George Casimir - Community Futures Development Corporation of Central Interior First Nations (CFDC of CIFN)

• Johanna Faccini - Queen "B" Kettle Korn Ltd

• Kent Fawcett - Kamloops Food Policy Council

• Clark Grieve - Venture Kamloops

• Beverly O'Neil - O'Neil Marketing & Consulting

• Matt Pederson - I.B.C. International Bar Coding Systems & Consulting

• Shannan Schimmelmann - Export Navigator

• Patrick Shannon - InnoNative

• Myrna Stark Leader - Invest Kelowna - COEDC Agriculture Support Program

• Kevin Touchet - Interior Health Authority

• Kevin Wilson - Savanna Logistics

• Quinton Woronchuk - BC Brine

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Mentorship Program

Industry support is essential to help up and coming entrepreneurs achieve success. Over several weeks, mentors connected with budding entrepreneurs to share business insights and encouraging words.

• Trevor Cesarone - Tru North Gluten Free

• Lee-ann Callan - Beverage Bombs

• Roch Fortin - Maple Roch Pure Canadian Maple Syrup

• Heather Bottoms - She Devil Delights

• Charlotte Langley - Scout Seafoods

• Greg Janssen - Counter Cultured Fermented Foods

• Martin Rivard - Vegilante Plant Based Foods

• Donna Denison - Little Creek Dressing

• Olivia Nowek - Planet Bee Honey Farm & Honeymoon Meadery

• Kyla King - Rad Jamz & Preserves Inc.

• Celine Giesbrecht - Celine's Just Desserts

• Ryan Parker - Travellin’ Tubs Corp

• Halee Fried - Farmstrong Cider

• Thor Devos - Simply Keto

• Quinton Woronchuk - BC Brine

Thank You to Supporters of the Tourism Skills Training Program - Cohort 1

On May 6, 2021, the first cohort of graduates from TOTA’s Tourism Skills Training Program came together to celebrate with a virtual graduation ceremony. After two months of online instruction, 4 certificates, +240 hours of mentorship meetings, employment coaching, and job placement support, 46 participants graduated, ready to deliver domestic tourism experiences and hospitality services.

The program was a great success, with the online format enabling TOTA and UVIC to connect with a large number of participants from their homes throughout the Thompson Okanagan region, from Clearwater to Osoyoos, Keremeos to Christina Lake, and many communities in between.

Students learned about Tourism and Hospitality trends, regional experiences, and the delivery of day-to-day guest service, including an overview of Indigenous tourism, accessible tourism, and sustainable tourism from a diverse roster of tourism experts.

The virtual Job Fair & Open House introduced program participants to 20 potential employers in the Thompson Okanagan Tourism industry, leading to 200+ connections.

Students completed the following certifications:

• LGBT+ Market-Ready Diversity Training | Tourism HR Canada

• SuperHost Foundations of Service Quality | go2HR

• SuperHost Service for All (Accessibility and Inclusive Tourism) | go2HR

• WHMIS Certification | Velocity Training

Thank You To The Program Supporters

The program came at a time when many of the participants were in search of next steps, resources, and a sense of connection, due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism industry. The training program was offered to participants free of charge, in cooperation with the University of Victoria-Peter B. Gustavson School of Business and supported by the Province of British Columbia.

We would like to express a heartfelt 'thank you' to the facilitators, guests speakers, mentors, and job fair employers who supported this program and the participants:

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Facilitators & Guest Speakers

Participants received 288+ hours of instruction from 30+ instructors with expertise in Tourism & Hospitality Industry Trends, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Region, Tourism Career & Professional Development, and other required areas of knowledge to enable participants to provide exceptional tourism experiences in the Thompson Okanagan region.

University of Victoria: Peter B. Gustavson School of Business

• Avril Matthews

• Dr. Brent Mainprize

• Martin Rissley

• Christian Van Buskirk

Domestic Tourism Industry

• Chief Frank Antoine - Bonaparte Indian Band

• Aaryn Secker - CMHA British Columbia

• Deanna Wampler - Indigenous Tourism BC

• Francine Douglas - Indigenous Tourism BC

• Wan Wan - KCR Community Services

• Shawna Quinn - KelownaHR

• Craig Pingle - Mission Hill Family Estate Winery

• Clee Varon - Mission Hill Family Estate Winery

• Shauna Stewart Douglas - Mommble

• Stephanie Molina - Tourism Wells Gray

• Tay Briggs - Wells Gray Adventures

• Wendy Sieben - WorkSafeBC

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)

• Ellen Walker-Matthews

• Barbara Bonnough

• Adam Kunis

• Amy Kneller

• Elizabeth Neef

• Kaitie Worobek

• Kavan Kumar

• Chelsea McGonigal

• Mike Overend

• Sonja Gaudet

• Thivya Viswanathan

• Terrina Barsalou

Symphony Tourism Services, a subsidiary of TOTA

• Kelly Galaski

• Shelby Campbell

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Mentorship Program

Industry support is essential to help up and coming tourism professionals achieve success as they journey down the path of their career. Over 8 weeks, mentors connected with budding tourism professionals to share career insights and encouraging words. Participants connected with a mentor through weekly meetings or calls, resulting in +240 hours of mentorship.

• Sue Willis - Accredited BC Accommodations

• Tim Rodgers - Best Western PLUS Kamloops Hotel

• Gabriel Newman - Caetani Cultural Centre

• Darcia Ball - Delta Hotels by Marriott Kamloops

• Shannon Bruckshaw - Delta Hotels Grand Okanagan Resort

• Kelley Glazer - Destination Osoyoos / Osoyoos Visitor Centre

• Bryce Manske - Distinctly Kelowna Wine Tours (retired)

• Matt Vader - District of Lake Country

• Kimo Linders - En Route Travel Canada

• Alex Ross - Fresh Adventures Canada

• Angela Case - Glohaven

• Darcey Godfrey - Glow SUP Adventures

• Angela Nagy - GreenStep Solutions

• Lyndie Hill - Hoodoo Adventure Co

• Mark Jeanes - Hotel Eldorado Kelowna

• Christina Ferreira - Impact Events & Project Management Inc.

• Terri Hadwin - Kamloops Arts Council

• Ingrid Dilschneider - Matrix Marketing

• Janik Livera - Maverick Estate Winery

• Yvette Astorga - Mezcal People

• Craig Pingle - Mission Hill Family Estate Winery

• Frank Antoine - Moccasin Trails

• Patti Lefkos - Patti Shales Lefkos / Loon Island Press

• Darlene Hartford - Peachland Visitor Centre

• Michelle Smith - Peaks Bed & Breakfast

• Krista Frasz - Predator Ridge Golf Resort

• Robyn Yenney - Prestige Hotels and Resorts

• Victor Laderoute - QB Gelato

• Katrin Harry - Raven Events

• Robin Piche - Rustic Retreat

• Jana Gohl - Sparkling Hill Resort & Wellness Hotel

• Kerry Werner - Sparkling Hill Resort & Wellness Hotel

• Jennifer Tocher - SpearHead Winery

• Gabe Cipes - Summerhill Pyramid Winery

• Kelly Galaski - Symphony Tourism Services (STS)

• Sherry Humphries - The Cove Lakeside Resort

• Jon Kreke - The Painted Turtle Restaurant

• Sonja Gaudet - Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)

• Colin Brost - Tourism Sun Peaks

• Stephanie Molina - Tourism Wells Gray

• Jude Brunt - United Way of the Central and South Okanagan/Similkameen

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Job Fair & Open House

The virtual Job Fair & Open House introduced program participants to 20+ potential employers in the Thompson Okanagan Tourism industry, leading to 200+ connections.

• Best Western Plus Kelowna

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Kamloops

• Eldorado Resort & Manteo Resort

• Fairfield Inn & Suites Kelowna

• Four Points by Sheraton Kelowna

• go2HR

• Hampton Inn & Suites Kelowna

• Jackson Triggs Estate Winery

• Manning Park Resort

• Mission Hill Family Estates Winery

• NK'Mip Cellars

• Planet Bee

• Sea Legs Water Bikes

• See Ya Later Ranch

• Sparkling Hill Resort

• Sumac Ridge Estate Winery

• Summerland Waterfront Resort

• The Cove Lakeside Resort

• Time Family of Wines

• Wood Lake RV Park

Opportunities to Support Labour Force

Mentoring | Job Placements | Virtual Job Fair

TOTA is facilitating two virtual Tourism Skills Training Programs in order to support displaced employees and professionals transitioning to a career in the tourism industry. The curriculum prepares participants to work in various tourism and hospitality positions in the Thompson Okanagan region with a focus on serving domestic markets in 2021, ultimately increasing the labour pool for tourism companies. Curriculum topics were determined by TOTA through survey responses from tourism operators about labour needs, skills gaps, and general feedback.

Industry support is essential to help these up and coming tourism professionals achieve success as they journey down the path of their career.

TOTA is seeking tourism operators to provide mentoring during the program and job placements post-program for up to 75 job-ready participants.

 You may choose to participate with one or all of these opportunities. Please submit a form for each corresponding opportunity.

 The upcoming opportunities for tourism operators to get involved are:

Mentoring for 8 Weeks | Apply by March 16

By volunteering as a mentor you can make a difference for a budding tourism professional by sharing career advice, positive support, and encouraging words. Connect with a participant through virtual meetings or phone calls for 1 hour per week for an 8 week period between March 18 and June 13. We will attempt to match you with a mentee in your community or region.

Job Postings & Work Placements

Are you hiring? TOTA is matching participants with work placements. Participants will have a strong understanding of current tourism industry practices from the curriculum, have varying professional experience, and are seeking a range of positions from entry level to middle management roles. 

Sign up to receive a list of potential candidates based on location, interest, and experience. Job postings will be shared during and after the Job Fair.

Virtual Job Fair | April 22, 2021

TOTA is hosting a virtual job fair for Tourism Skills Training program participants on April 22. Employers will host a virtual booth and have the opportunity to meet with participants. Tech support for the virtual platform will be provided.

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After you sign up, we will contact you with further details.

Spread the Word

Please share these industry opportunities with any tourism managers and leaders in the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry that may be interested.

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Contact Us

Feel free to contact us if you have further questions about TOTA's Training Centre and programs:

Barbara Bonnough
Training Program Manager
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
(778) 752-5877 |  Training@TOTABC.com

 The Tourism Skills Training Programs are delivered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) in cooperation with the University of Victoria-Peter B. Gustavson School of Business and supported by the Province of British Columbia.

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association partners with Peter B. Gustavson School of Business to offer new virtual Tourism Skill Training Program

Victoria, British Columbia (Jan 28 , 2021) – The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has teamed up with the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business, University of Victoria, BC to provide job readiness training for Thompson Okanagan residents through a new, free certificate program.

In this fully funded, online learning program, participants will receive instruction, mentorship, employment coaching, and job placement support delivered full-time over 13 weeks. The new Thompson Okanagan Tourism Skills Training Program will prepare participants to work within all areas of the tourism and hospitality industry. Blending live virtual learning sessions and self-led online industry certificate programs, the program covers the changing landscape of the tourism industry, with featured guest speakers and virtual tours to connect participants to the typically dynamic and growing Thompson Okanagan tourism industry.

“During this unfortunate tourism slowdown, this is a great opportunity for tourism workers to upskill,” said Saul Klein, Dean of the Gustavson School of Business. “We are proud to be partnering with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association to help provide opportunities for those working in industries hard-hit by the pandemic.”

“Once we are finally in the recovery stage of tourism opening up once again across the Thompson Okanagan, we know that labour will be in high demand,” said Ellen Walker-Matthews, TOTA Sr. Vice President and Acting CEO . “We hope people see this as a tremendous opportunity to learn about the many career opportunities in the tourism industry that are available today and for the future.”

Developed in response to the decline of international tourism and the increase in domestic tourism in 2021, this program will support people whose jobs have been impacted by COVID-19, as well as help Thompson Okanagan businesses capitalize on domestic tourism through skills development for the region’s tourism labour force.

The program hopes to attract new Canadians, persons with disabilities and Indigenous people. Workers over 55 years of age are also encouraged to apply. Applicants also must be currently unemployed or precariously employed (casual, seasonal, or part-time). The application deadline is February 3, 2021, with classes held February 8 to May 5, 2021. Up to 60 students will be accommodated, with a second similar program being planned for March. For more information about the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Skills Training Program, please visit TOTABC.org/Training.

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About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. Supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport, TOTA is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies. For more information, visit TOTABC.org.

About the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business

The Peter B. Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria is dedicated to providing a non-traditional business education and a dynamic learning environment that develops principled managers and leaders who can drive innovation and social change. Located in Victoria, BC at the University of Victoria, Gustavson is among the fewer than one percent of the world's business schools that hold both AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System) accreditation. Gustavson offers BCom, MBA, MGB, MM and PhD programs, and has 104 international exchange partners. For more information, visit: uvic.ca/gustavson.

Media Contact

Kathryn Wu
Account Manager
Beattie Tartan
C: 604-968-5153
E: Kathryn.Wu@beattiegroup.com

Tourism Skills Training Program: Application Now Open for Free Virtual Certification

Online Course Dates:
February 8 - May 5, 2021 (Mon - Thurs, 9 AM - 4 PM)

Application Deadline:
February 3, 2021

Limited seats available

TOTA has received government funding to provide tourism training skills programs and we are pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the Canadian Tourism Professional (CTP) Program, a free Domestic Tourism Certification for the Thompson Okanagan Region.

This 13-week full-time virtual program is an opportunity for unemployed, casual, seasonal and part-time employees to upgrade their skills, knowledge, and industry connections to overcome the challenges through this uncertain time. 

The Canadian Tourism Professional Program will prepare 60 participants to work in various tourism and hospitality positions in the Thompson Okanagan region with a focus on serving domestic markets in traditional employment and/or self-employment. Participants will receive instruction, mentorship, employment coaching, and job placement support.

Applicant Eligibility Requirements:

• Living in Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia (including Shuswap, Boundary Country, Similkameen, and Gold Country/Nicola Valley)

• Legally able to work in Canada

• Currently unemployed or working casual, seasonal, or part-time

• Over 15 years of age

For more information:

Website: TOTABC.org/Training
Email: Training@TOTABC.com
Phone: (778) 752-5877

Delivered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) in cooperation with the University of Victoria-Peter B. Gustavson School of Business and supported by the Province of British Columbia.

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Share This Opportunity

Feel free to share this opportunity with potential employees of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry, particularly unemployed or part-time, casual, and seasonal employees looking to expand their career.

We have provided sample content to share on bulletins, email newsletters, website listings, and social media:

Skills Development Survey | Open Until November 6

Repeatedly we hear that a critical area of concern is in building the employee base in this region. Our team at TOTA is working to solve this issue, including the development of a specialized Tourism Professional Skills Training Program.

We believe this initiative will help to build a much needed base of trained employees.

Participants will receive training to develop specialized in-demand tourism skills, followed by a work placement to gain on the job experience to enhance the participant’s employability skills. The training will be delivered in a group environment, supported by a range of activities which may include counselling, vocational and/or learning assessments, work experience, job search skills, mentorship, referral to community resources, and post-project follow up.

Hiring graduates with these specialized skillsets will enable hospitality and tourism employers to focus on delivering high quality guest experiences and growing a sustainable and resilient business.

This unique program will focus on the areas of need that you as Tourism Stakeholders provide to us in the Skills Development Survey. Please take the time to complete this brief survey to help us better understand the employment needs of the industry.

If you are interested in hiring program participants for the 2021 peak season, you have the option to include your contact details and an Expression of Interest at the end of the survey.

It is another survey but one that can directly support the growth of the industry and your business in the future.